Puerto Rican trombonist and legendary composer Willy Colón has died. He is 75 years old. Hours earlier, local media reported that Colon was hospitalized in New York on Friday. Colón, born William Anthony Colón Roman, was a self-taught performer who became one of the greatest legends in the local salsa scene.
Local media reported that he died on Saturday. Colon’s family has not released a statement.
Willie Colon’s Cause of Death
While Willie Colon’s exact cause of death has not been announced, media reports indicate that he was being treated for a respiratory illness.
Colon began his recording career in 1967 at the age of 16, when he produced his debut album “El Malo” with singer Héctor Lavoe. Collaborations under the Fania label resulted in enduring classics including “Calle Luna, Calle Sol,” “Abuelita,” “El DÃa de Mi Suerte,” “La Murga” and “Juana Peña,” becoming one of the most influential duos in the salsa world.
During his career, he has released over 32 albums, received 9 gold and 5 platinum records, sold over 8 million albums worldwide, and received 8 Grammy nominations in the tropical music category. He has also appeared in films and TV series, including “Vigilante,” “The Last Fight,” “Salsa,” “Miami Vice” and the TV series “La Intrusa.”
On Friday, February 20, singer Rubén Blades shared a message of support on social media following reports that Colon was hospitalized in New York City with a respiratory illness.
“Online news reports indicate that my colleague Willie Colon is currently hospitalized in a New York hospital, where he was urgently transferred due to apparent respiratory issues. I don’t know much about the situation, but I send him my best wishes for a speedy recovery and join thousands of others in praying for his speedy recovery. We offer our support to him, his wife, children and loved ones during this difficult time,” Blaise wrote on the X (formerly Twitter) platform.
Earlier, the account “Juana Peña” posted on X that Colon was admitted to Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville on Wednesday with respiratory issues and said his condition was fragile.
